In the state of Iowa, spousal support takes on one of the following four forms: traditional, rehabilitative, reimbursement, and transitional. The first is often reserved for couples where one spouse was a stay-at-home parent who may be unable to obtain gainful employment and requires long-term and potentially permanent support. Rehabilitative spousal support helps one spouse advance their education and training to obtain employment through short-term assistance. Reimbursement support is when one spouse reimburses the other for supporting their ability to advance their career during the marriage. Transitional support is designed to assist one spouse in the transition into a single life by helping with expenses like debt payment, housing, vehicle purchase, or a business startup.

Whatever type of support you may be entitled to or responsible for paying, you will naturally wonder when the payments come due. Here we’ll answer some frequently asked questions on the matter. An Iowa alimony lawyer from Simpson Legal Group is available to review your situation and determine your rights and obligations. 

Spousal Support FAQs

Do spousal support payments begin prior to the finalizing of a divorce? 

While spousal support mayments usually start after the divorce is finalized, some arrangemetns can be made with the court for support to begin sooner. While your divorce is processing, the court can issue temporary orders concerning you and your spouse’s financial situation. This may include the ordering of temporary support payments pending the finalization of your divorce. Income withholding orders may be secured under Iowa Code Sec. 598.22 (2022), which ensures that the recipient is paid on time and in the correct amount. 

How often are spousal support payments made? 

In Iowa, the method of payment for spousal support is periodic, as opposed to a one-time sum. However, the period may vary based upon your pay schedule. The court will generally order the spouse responsible for paying with submitting payments to the district court clerk or to the collection services center. Spousal support payments will generally include an income withholding order with the support order accompanying your divorce. 

How much will the spousal support payment be? 

The way in which spousal support payments are calculated depends upon a variety of factors, including:

• The duration of the marriage
• The age, physical health, and emotional condition of the spouses 
• The way in which property was divided following the divorce 
• The educational level of each spouse at the start of the marriage and at the time of the divorce
• The earning capacity of each spouse, taking into account their experience and education, as well as responsibilities with their children and the time and expense needed to get the training and/or education needed to obtain suitable employment 
• The prospect of the requesting spouse becoming self-supporting and how long it might take
• Any mutual agreements the spouses may have made about financial compensation 
• The presence of a prenuptial agreement or antenuptial agreement
• Other factors the court deems relevant 

Connect with a Divorce Lawyer for Help with Spousal Support Concerns

Give the experienced Iowa divorce attorneys from Simpson Legal Group a call at 712-256-9899 or visit our site to schedule your consultation.